Citizens Together vol. 1 iss. 1

Vo l u m e 1 / I s s u e 1

a Louisiana magazine celebrating Christian faith and community pride

Gospel Legend

SHERMAN WASHINGTON & THE ZION HARMONIZERS Praising the Lord for Over 70 Years SHERMAN WASHINGTON Godfather of the Jazzfest Gospel Tent and Pioneer Singer

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:

Pastor Jeanjacques A Willing Vessel

Father Tony

Spiritual Physician

PREMIER EDITION Special Commemorative Issue!

Heath Evans

More Than a Saint

CitizensTogether-Issue1.indd 1

7/22/11 11:31 AM

2 Citizens Together Magazine

Contents

volume 1 / issue 1

Feature Saints Supporting Saints

p. 6

by Betsy Woods

How does a native New Orleans son become the Catholic chaplain of the New Orleans Saints, none-the-less an internationally renowned priest, charismatic youth speaker, motivator and revivalist, author, community organizer, counselor, parish priest, and NFL Promo actor?

Father Tony Ricard shares his journey and vision.

Cover Story The Zion Harmonizers

p. 12

by Jean Bailey Robor

The Zion Harmonizers have been praising the Lord with their voices and music for over 70 years. In this issue, Clinton Davis honors Sherman Washington, an original Zion Harmonizer member and a legend in Southern Gospel music who passed away on March 14, 2011.

Feature A Willing Vessel

p. 18

by Jo Ann M. Jordan

Pastor Jeanjacques of True Vine Baptist Church has dedicated his life to becoming a “willing vessel” for the Lord. He is a firm believer that “the core of ministry is love.” Read how he lives his belief that, “There is preparation before declaration.”

Feature More Than a Saint

p. 20

by Jean Bailey Robor

New Orleans Saints running back Heath Evans and his wife are on a mission to foster hope and healing in the lives of children and families affected by sexual abuse. Through the Heath Evans Foundation, they are committed to breaking the cycle of abuse through healing.

© 2011 Citizens Together. All Rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form, electronic or mechanical, without written permission from the publisher.

Citizens Together Magazine

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Publisher Janet Tobias Editors Jean Bailey Robor Lee Grue Web Editor Kristen McEntyre Contributing Writers Jean Bailey Robor Betsy Woods Joann Jordan Photographers D.C. Green Sean Johnson Joyce Chambis Kenneth McGruder Graphic Designers Byron K. Weathersby, Sr. Julia Sevin Circulation Managers Darnell Tobias Damon Tobias Darrell Tobias Sales Manager Darrell Tobias Counselor Sanford Bell Betsy Woods Citizens Together Magazine P.O. Box 15380 New Orleans, LA. 70175-5380 www.citizenstogethermagazine.com 504-427-7969 citizenstogether@cox.net Citizens Together Magazine Copyright 2011 all rights reserved.

Any copying redistribution or retransmission of any of the contents of this service without the express written consent of Citizens Together Magazine is prohibited.

4 Citizens Together Magazine

Mission Statement The mission of Citizens

Together Magazine is to reach citizens on every level.

We will inform, empower, enlighten, encourage and showcase people locally and nationally.

This multicultural magazine will “spotlight� hidden talent as well as known talent.

Our Voice Our Interests Our People Citizens Together Magazine

From the Publisher

all things through Christ which strengthens me.”

The sky is the limit. This is an exciting world and a creative time for New Orleans. I encourage you to explore it; there’s so much to do, so many places to go, so many people to meet.

Dear Readers,

Welcome to the premier issue of Citizens Together magazine!

Dear Readers, Like many of you, I am embracing each stage of life and experiencing new and wonderful things. In putting this issue together, I’ve met so many wonderful people. I am literally having the time of my life.

In reflection, I remember, as I’m sure you do, how Hurricane Katrina stopped us for awhile. Our lives were interrupted. Many of us had to start over again, rebuilding our homes and businesses.

2 Cor. 4:8-9 reads, “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”

The citizens of New Orleans are resilient. We have been set back, but not denied. God has been good to me. God has been good to all of us.

Now, I am getting out of my comfort zone. I am confident, as Philippians 4:13 reads, “I can do

In this issue of Citizens Together magazine, you’ll find exciting articles to capture your interest. Psalm 133:1 reads, “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.” We must have a well-balanced life by putting Jesus first. That’s just what the Zion Harmonizers do. This group has been singing longer than some of us have been in this world. I am grateful to have known Brother Sherman Washington, a gospel pioneer, and to see the Zion Harmonizers perform, spreading the Word through song. You can tell they enjoy what they are doing. Brother Washington passed away on March 14, 2011. God willing, the group will be around many, many more years.

Father Tony is such a blessing! I wish you all could have an opportunity to meet him. In addition to being a priest, author and teacher, he’s also quite the comedian. In Proverbs 17:22, the Bible says, “A merry heart doeth good like a good medicine.” I attended Father Tony’s church before and after Hurricane Katrina. He has a good sense of humor, telling one joke after another during our interview. You’ll find that Father Tony is a football fan. A true Saint, supporting the Saints.

Rev. Jeanjacques is also a loving and compassionate person. I visited his church and the anointing swept through the congregation.

Something that impresses me about him is that he makes himself so accessible to others. When I walked into the church foyer, there was an information table with business cards, complete with

his cell and home phone numbers.

On the days I visited Father Tony’s church and Rev. Jeanjacques’ church, they both walked down the aisle, shaking the hands of their members and parishioners. If you have an opportunity to visit, you’ll see that God is blessing both their ministries.

I thank God for Heath Evans of the New Orleans Saints, an advocate for helping to heal victims of childhood sexual abuse. Flip a few pages and find out how you can help support the Heath Evans Foundation.

Congratulations to the Hornets! We are proud of you for making it to the playoffs.

I hope you enjoy this premier issue of Citizens Together magazine. I’d like to extend a special ‘thank you’ to all of the counselors and teachers at the different business classes I’ve attended: Good Work network, Urban League of Greater New Orleans, The 4 Walls of Publishing B.E.N., Operation Hope, Urban Entrepreneur Partnership, Southern University of New Orleans, etc. I thank you for your prayers and support. I also offer a special thank you to God, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, my three sons (Darnell, Damon and Darrell Tobias), Jean Bailey Robor, Kristen McEntyre and Lee Grue. You’ve helped me as I’ve moved forward and produced this magazine. A special acknowledgement to the late Byron K. Weathersby, Sr., who mentored me at the beginning of the process of for this publication.

Janet Tobias 5-55-55

Citizens Together Magazine

5

SAINTS SUPPORTING SAINTS

FATHER TONY RICARD SPIRITUAL PHYSICIAN

by betsy Woods How does a native New Orleans son become the Catholic chaplain of the New Orleans Saints, none-the-less an internationally renowned priest, charismatic youth speaker, motivator and revivalist, author, community organizer, counselor, parish priest, and NFL promo actor? According to Father Tony, it all started with learning to play the xylophone. A smile spreading across his face, he remembers trying out for the St. Augustine marching band in high school, the world-famous “St. Augustine Marching 100”. “The xylophone players marched right in front,” he said “and I wanted to be there in the front”. Soon, he was performing with the Marching Purple Knights in the Superdome at a Saints halftime show. “I felt like I was on holy ground.

I was completely captivated, rapt.” But his true support for the Saints began earlier than that. As a small child, he would attend the Saints games at Tulane Stadium with his father. “For the last decade, I have been so blessed to have a chance to pray with a team I’ve followed all of my life. It is one of the greatest blessings a priest and football fan could ever imagine.”

Father Tony claims his loyalty to the Saints is a reflection of his faith in 6 Citizens Together Magazine

God and His Mercy. Growing up he lived with his parents, who tended to belong to the “Christmas and Easter Club” as far as Mass was concerned.

It was his grandmother who nourished the seeds of his faith. “I was going to be a medical doctor. I wanted to heal people, help them.” Instead of a medical doctor, Father Tony’s life took a different path, and he became a spiritual physician, helping and healing his congregations and community.

“The priesthood was always on the back burner, but I never openly spoke about it growing up.” The question lingered inside of him, patiently urging him toward the vocation of priesthood. “I first learned about what it meant to be a priest from teaching,” he said. Prior to entering Notre Dame Seminary, he was a school teacher for the New Orleans Public School System where he taught for three years at Lafayette Elementary. “You learn how to minister as a school teacher.

There was one boy who would meet me at my car in the morning. I would ask him if he would go get me some breakfast and I would give him some money and tell him to get himself some too, for his help, of course. He never figured out that by getting my breakfast I could ensure he would get something to eat.”

At 26, Father Tony decided to enter the seminary. “God had been preparing me for the priesthood my whole life, I just had to catch on.”

His love of the Saints has made him a national celebrity, but his ministries have earned him an international reputation of honor. A man whose mission and dreams have merged, he serves as a priest for the Archdiocese of New Orleans and is the Pastor of

Our Lady of the Sea Parish. He is a former Instructor of Church Doctrine for the Institute for Black Catholic Studies at Xavier University. Since August 29, 2005, Father Tony has been dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in our community. “‘I Will Survive’ has become my motto. God will always be with us even in the midst of mess.”

For the past 25 years, Father Tony has served as the Camp Director for Camp Pelican, a summer camp for

Herald, the official newspaper of the Archdiocese of New Orleans. Father Tony offers keynote addresses, retreats, revivals, and youth talks across the nation and internationally, having preached and ministered in 20 foreign countries. In 2007, he was the keynote speaker for the National Catholic Youth Conference in Columbus, Ohio; he presented a concurrent session for the National Catholic Youth Confer-

“For the last decade, I have been so blessed to have a chance to pray with a team I’ve followed all of my life.

It is one of the greatest blessings a priest and football fan could ever imagine.” children with pulmonary diseases such as cystic fibrosis, chronic asthma, and other lung disorders, including those who are ventilator dependent. Since 1993, Fr. Tony has served at Camp Challenge, a camp for children with Oncological and Hematological diseases such as cancer, and sickle cell anemia.

He is the author of the books, I Still Believe: A Testimony of Faith after the Storm, Don’t be Stupid! Lessons You Should Already Know, and I Don’t Make Them Up! Reflections, Stories, and Jokes from a Faithful Fool. He is the co-author and editor of the book MAXimum Faith: Prayers and Reflections by Young Katrina Survivors.

He has also written for the Clarion

ence in Kansas City, Missouri in 2009, and has been giving major presentations to the faculty and staff of several Catholic school districts in Canada.

The NFL couldn’t help but recognize Father’s Tony’s “Saintly” spirit and support, and filmed him in one of a series of league promo spots. This past Thanksgiving Day, he made his debut on national television in a NFL promo that aired during the Dallas Cowboy’s game. The promo featured him closing his bible, blowing out a candle in the sanctuary of Our Lady of the Sea, and jumping into his vintage Pontiac to join some buddies for a, presumably, Saints game. This followed his

Citizens Together Magazine

7

trip to New York to officiate the wedding ceremony of New Orleans’s own son, Aaron Neville, and his bride, photographer Sarah A. Friedman. And this very month, a film documentary on the life of Father Tony is scheduled to be released. The chosen title, simply, “Father Tony.”

For more information on Father Tony’s Knight Time Ministries and Two Knights Publishing Company visit his website at http://FatherTony.com.

8 Citizens Together Magazine

True Vine Baptist Church

Deacon Board

Guardians Ministry

Sunday School Department

Anointed Voices Choir 10 Citizens Together Magazine

Deaconess Board

Usher Board

Senior Saints

Junior Ushers Ministry

BUILD NOW Build Now, a non-profit organization, works with you to overcome the obstacles keeping you from rebuilding on your lot in New Orleans. We’ll help you with everything from choosing a floorplan to finding financing. Then we’ll build your new home.

5713 Elysian Fields Ave, New Orleans LA 70122 (504) 343-6962 Fax: (504)272-0492

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Ellipsis Editorial

Betsy Woods AUTHOR / EDITOR / WRITING MENTOR

504 377 5417 EllipsisEditorial@gmail.com

Citizens Together Magazine

11

Sherman Washington & The Zion Harmonizers

Praising the Lord for Over 70 Years

by Jean bailey robor For Southern Gospel music at its best, tune into The Zion Harmonizers. These award-winning songsters will have you tapping your toes and clapping your hands as you listen to their upbeat sounds.

The Zion Harmonizers have been spiritually uplifting their audiences through song since 1939 when they were organized by Dr. Benjamin Maxon. He managed the group for two years. He then entered the ministry, accepting the pastorship of the St. Thomas Baptist Church in uptown New Orleans in 1941. Mr. Sherman Washington took over the 12 Citizens Together Magazine

managerial and directorial duties, and has been doing it ever since.

Over the years, the group has toured in many parts of the globe, including France, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Holland, and Canada. They have also traveled extensively in the United States, from the east coast to the west coast, including venues such as Disney World and the Chicago Gospel Festival.

At first the group specialized in a capella singing. They later added instrumentation but have always remained true to their original content.

On seven occasions the group

has received the Big Easy Award.

This New Orleans award honors top performers for their contributions in several categories, including quite a few music and theater groupings.

Starting with vinyl records and moving onto CDs, the group has recorded over 200 songs. Among the crowd favorites are “Old Noah”,” Swing Low Sweet Chariot,” “Build Me a Cabin,” and “Wrapped Up” and “Tied Up in Jesus.” Several other popular titles are “This Old Soul of Mine,” “Precious King,” “Pray On,” “Jezebel,” and “When Mother’s Gone.” Members of the group

play instruments ranging from guitar to drums. However, some songs are performed without instrumental accompaniment.

The late Sherman Washington, a legend in Southern Gospel music and one of the original members, died March 14, 2011. He had performed with the group since 1942, longer than any other member. The Harmonizers counted on his keen ear. He always let them know when they needed a little guidance.

“You can believe, if we hit a bad note, he would call from that bedroom. And if he can get up and get in there, he comes in there,” says Benjamin Francois III, a vocalist with the group. Interestingly, Brother Washington has the reputation of not only promoting The Zion Harmonizers, but of helping many other gospel singers and groups get a good start in the industry. His giving spirit has influenced many down through the years and continues to reach into the hearts of current Zion Harmonizer members, from the youngest to the oldest.

Norris Louis began singing with the group, off and on, from 19812009; he is now with the Christian Brothers but he fondly remembers the time he spent with the Zion Harmonizers. “They are real organized and are known for their 4-part harmony and for being well-dressed gentlemen.” When asked about Sherman Washington, he says, “We are real close; we’re still close. He’s always looked out for his group and other groups. When I was singing with the Mighty Chariots, years ago, he would come by my apartment and give me programs. I’d ask him for advice for so many things; we had a

good relationship and didn’t have to hold back from each other.” Nories traveled abroad with the Zion Harmonizers to “so many places I can’t even think of,” including Rome, Italy, Belgium and Germany.

“Brother Washington has written about 15-20 songs; don’t know if we’ve recorded them all,” says Bracella Briscoe, current group member.

performing at David Dixon’s funeral.

The group has performed at many notable events, such as Louisiana Gov. Blanco’s inauguration, Christmas Special at the St. Louis Cathedral with Rachel Van Voorhees, Epcot Center at Disney World with Louisiana Lt. Gov. Landrieu. In addition to performing in the United States and abroad, they’ve performed on sever-

“We have about 8 CDs out. One is a Christmas CD; some are CDs we’ve compiled with other gospel groups.”

He notes the many venues in which they’ve performed, including Holland, Canada, Madrid, France and Corinth. “I used to have memorabilia of all the places I’d performed with them, but I lost it all when Hurricane Katrina came through in 2005.” He remembers how the Zion Harmonizers were asked to take part in Ed Bradley’s funeral service but they were already booked and, regrettably, could not break their engagement. They did have the honor of

al ships such as the Delta Queen and Mississippi Queen.

“Couldn’t Hear Nobody Pray.”

That’s one of William Briscoe’s favorite songs that he performs with the Zion Harmonizers. “We picked it up from the Fairfield Four; we do some by the Dixie Hummingbirds.”

William admits that he enjoys a capella renditions best. When the audience is rejoicing and praising the Lord along with them, he says, “It’s magical. I love it. I really love it. Sometimes when you’re onstage and you least expect it and you think you’re not doing your best, it seems Citizens Together Magazine

13

that the audience appreciates you more.”

William remembers how his mother used to sing in church even though she died when he was young. “We always had a piano in the house and people who could play the piano would come by and play.

It was the only piano in the neighborhood. There was always music going on in the house; a few uncles and my daddy played music. One uncle played guitar.” Wistfully, he says, ”My oldest brother, who died a few years ago, told me that when

musician.” William joined the Zion Harmonizers when they needed a drummer. He took drum lessons for six months. When they needed a bass guitar player, he learned that. “I still play drums occasionally but mainly play bass and sing a little.”

One of the places the Zion Harmonizers play frequently is the Jazz Fest in New Orleans. William tells of an experience a few years ago: “They were taking calls on Channel 4 and asking if they thought the jazz fest was getting too big, spreading out too much and I called the sta-

I was in the bath tub, he and my father would come stand by the door and listen to me sing. That was back when I was a teenager. Music was a basic part of our lives I had two older brothers that took saxophone lessons in school; my sister took piano. I’m the only one that turned out to be a

tion. I told them as a spectator, when you go to see a group you want to be comfortable, to have a place to sit and be able to enjoy the show, but when you’re on the stage, you want to perform to a standing room only crowd; that sets the tone for your overall performance.” If you’re for-

14 Citizens Together Magazine

tunate enough to be there when the Zion Harmonizers take the stage, you’ll see that it’s more than standing room only. “When we come on all the empty seats are gone; you see people outside the tent looking in.”

Franklin Smith, who joined the Zion Harmonizers in 1997, says he’s sung in “church choirs all my life.”

He sings baritone, tenor and lead.

And he has a great respect for Sherman Washington. “He was a big influence. He has been involved in just about all the gospel bands that come through New Orleans, helping them to get a start. He was a real beautiful fella. Good. Kind. Good-hearted.

He was just an all around good person. He was instrumental in getting me in the group. They performed at my church and needed a baritone singer at the time and I told Sherman I was a baritone. He invited me to a rehearsal the next Tuesday and, after that, I was in the group.”

“I learned my first song at six years old on the telephone,” says Marion Chambers, another Zion Harmonizer. “A music school teacher, Alda Granderson, taught me how to sing “O Holy Night.” I always had faith and trust in her because she was a very beautiful woman and I thought she would marry me one day.” He chuckles. “I sang the song in a Christmas program. I’ve always dedicated my talent to the Lord and I’ve always wanted to use it for His service.” Marion is a keyboardist who, through Briscoe’s urging, came in from time to time to sing a bass line for the group. When asked to join, there was no hesitation.

“I have a mixed reaction because, with gospel singing, I don’t see a young following. Now my

daughter follows, but you don’t see a massive following because of the other influences these children have in their lives. I would like to see actual gospel music more in churches.

I’m a traditionalist; I’m a conservative. And I believe that music has a meaning and a message.” Marion emphasizes, “The Lord gave me a talent and I want to use that talent.

When I was asked to join the group, I was under Sherman Washington’s tutelage. I’ve never wanted to be a lead singer, but sometimes you have to step up. When Dr. Maxon took the call to ministry, Sherman became the director and manager of the group and began singing lead. There is just no describing Sherman. He is a very kindhearted, loving person. He will help you no matter what, whether you’re a gospel singer or not. He is a great man.”

“I began singing since I was young enough to remember; singing in the children’s choir at a young age, probably about 5 years old,” says Benjamin Francois III, who sings baritone and tenor with the Zion Harmonizers. “My favorite song is ‘Swing Low, Sweet Chariot’.” Benjamin began with the group around 2006 and says, “It’s a wonderful feeling knowing that the songs not only touch our hearts but they touch others also. At times it appears the audience is in sync with us and you can feel the energy going both ways; the way the audience receives the music; it’s a blessing.”

Charles Harris, the newest member of the group, was born into a family of nine who loved to sing.

“In church, we would sing locally.

Then, as I got older, my voice began to change. I was singing tenor, then

second tenor, then bass by the age of 13. That’s when my voice began to get nurtured, in the high school choir in New York. My older brother used to sing bass, and I always loved it and I tried to sound more and more like him. By 17, I was really singing bass.” Once he relocated to New Orleans, he heard about the Zion Harmonizers. Then they heard him. His first performance with them was in May, on Mother’s Day, at the House of Blues. “It’s a great privilege to sing with the Zion Harmonizers. I’m just getting to know Sherman Washington. They way they talk about him, I believe his determination is to motivate the group to reach all around the world. He has a desire, a passion for gospel music, and he makes sure that it is professionally done. He’s very careful about the group’s image and is a very compassionate man.”

Apparently, there is something

almost magical about The Zion Harmonizers to have been around all these years. Maybe the “magic” lies in Sherman Washington’s dedication and the legacy of founder Benjamin Maxon. In talking with several members of the group, it is obvious that “magical quality” is a desire, not just to simply entertain, but to bring others closer to the Lord through their music. Just ask them, and they’ll agree that the greatest accomplishment of the Zion Harmonizers is in winning souls to Christ.

Interestingly, many have been lifetime members. Several have passed on since their inception: Nolan Washington, John Hawkins, Louis Jones, Hendry Warrick, Margie Ramsey, Louis Johnson, Howard Bowie and Sherman Washington.

You can hear the Zion Harmonizers every second Sunday at the House of Blues.

Citizens Together Magazine

15

Vo l u m e 1 / I s s u e 1

a Louisiana magazine celebrating Christian faith and community pride

Gospel Legend

SHERMAN WASHINGTON & THE ZION HARMONIZERS Praising the Lord for Over 70 Years SHERMAN WASHINGTON Godfather of the Jazzfest Gospel Tent and Pioneer Singer

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:

advertise your BuSINeSS in the next issue of CItIZeNS toGetHer Magazine.

Pastor Jeanjacques A Willing Vessel

Great eXpoSure For SpeCIaL eveNtS • WeDDINGS • SCHooLS • aND More!

Father Tony

Spiritual Physician

Call us at (504) 427-7969 to arrange your success toDay!

PREMIER EDITION Special Commemorative Issue!

Heath Evans

More Than a Saint

16 Citizens Together Magazine

www.citizenstogethermagazine.com citizenstogether@cox.net

The Memory of

Brother Sherman Washington was honored by

Quintin Davis at the 2011 Jazz Festival in the Gospel Tent He Founded

Citizens Together Magazine

17

A Willing Vessel

by Jo ann M. Jordan

“i don’t fake it but i make it.” “There is preparation before declaration.” These are the words of Donald C. Jeanjacques Sr., Pastor of “True Vine” Baptist Church located at 2008 Marigny Street in New Orleans. Pastor Jeanjacques is aware that there is no substitution for the truth; therefore he makes every effort to present himself before God as a proven worker who does not need to be ashamed, teaching the message of truth accurately, and that is why he is determined to stand on the word of God which declares: And ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free, John 8:32 (his favorite scripture).

Pastor Donald C. Jeanjacques’ journey began long before he was in his mother’s womb, but on June 24, 1946; 64 years ago, God brought little Donald forth by the way of his parents, the late Mr. Henry O. Jeanjacques Sr. and the late Marguerite Jeanjacques. He is a native of New Orleans and the sibling of two brothers and three sisters.

He attended the New Orleans Public School System where he met his high school sweetheart, a girl named Chryzel Kinney. It is obvious that she became the apple of his eye, the melody in his songs, and the woman of his dreams because she has been his bride for 46 years and counting. Four beautiful children are the product of this glorious union: Donald Jr., Monique, Theron and Jerron Jeanjacques.

According to Martin Luther King Jr., “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” Pastor Jeanjacques is no stranger when it comes to challenge and controversy. He has broken the color barrier on two of his jobs: he was the second black person to be promoted to a Shift Supervisor’s position at Flintkote Company and the first black person to become a Plant Manager at Piazza and Sons. I am sure that his leadership has paved the way for many other black people but nothing can compare to what happened next.

Before his call to the preaching ministry in 1982, Pastor Jeanjacques served on the Usher Board #2, President of Courageous Male Chorus, a member of True Vine Deacon Board, Assistant Superintendent of Sunday school, President of the Baptist Training Union (BTU) and a member of the Willing Workers Auxiliary. Because of his passion for the ministries, Pastor Jeanjacques’ commitment, leadership, loyalty, courage, humility, and generosity unexpectantly prepared him to be obedient and confident of “the call” without delay. When asked to describe himself in one word, Pastor Jeanjacques replied with18 Citizens Together Magazine

out any hesitation, “servant.”

Pastor Jeanjacques served under the leadership of his pastor, mentor and spiritual father, the late great Reverend Emmett F. Lockley. Reverend Lockley pastored “True Vine” Baptist Church for 54 years. A beautiful smile and a hearty laugh filled the room as he began to speak of his former pastor. “I stuck close to him... If he preached, I was there. If he performed a wedding or funeral, I was there.” Pastor Jeanjacques admits that he became Pastor Lockley’s shadow and literally held on to every word that came out of his mouth.

What was so ironic about their relationship was that their leadership, service and love for the ministry were somewhat identical. They both attended the Union Baptist College and Theological Seminary. They both held positions with the Louisiana Freeman Missionary General Association. They both served on the Trustee Board and most importantly, they both had a tremendous amount of love for all of God’s people with “True Vine” having a very special place in their hearts.

Unknowingly, Pastor Jeanjacques’ preparation and dedication for greatness had not gone unnoticed.

He received his license to preach the gospel on February 23, 1983 and on March 29, 1984 was ordained to pastor “True Vine” Baptist Church.

Pastor Jeanjacques admits that he was unaware that he was even a candidate to pastor the church. He joyfully reminisces about that day when pastor Lockley laid his hands on him (imparting his spirit) and six days later, went on home to glory. He describes the event as mind bothering. It reminds him of Moses and how he passed the torch to Joshua. When asked who he would compare their relationship to in the bible, he replied: Elijah and Elisha.

Pastor Jeanjacques is aware that just like Elijah; his pastor had done great things, therefore he has been

commissioned to do greater things.

Pastor Jeanjacques reemphasizes that although he had a great love for ministry and had definitely put in the work; he was not looking for any notoriety but just wanted to do the work of the Lord.

Pastor Jeanjacques is a firm believer that “the core of ministry is love”. His love was demonstrated post Hurricane Katrina when he rushed back to check on “The Holy Ghost Headquarters”, his church.

He admits to being the first church back in New Orleans post-Katrina and was fortunate to repair the edifice without delay. It was love that allowed him to share the occupancy of his church with other pastors whose churches had been damaged or destroyed and were waiting repair. When asked what motivates him to do the things he does, Pastor Jeanjacques testified that he is motivated by his relationship with God and God’s relationship with him.

Pastor Jeanjacques’ involvement with community development includes Faubourg St. Roch, St. Roch Project Community Association and is excited to say that a multipurpose center is on its way which will include a variety of programs such as tutoring, a drug program and much more.

Pastor Jeanjacques has definitely proven himself to be a True Saint who has recently (last year) fallen in love with the New Orleans Saints (by the way of the persistence of his wife). He has always been (and still is) a Dallas Cowboys fan and is having trouble deciding what to wear when they play each other during this Thanksgiving Holiday. He is thinking about wearing the Saints attire at the top and the Cowboys at the

bottom… (Laughter).

I am sure whatever he decides will not affect the love he has for the city of New Orleans or the joy that is being spread throughout the city when the Saints are playing. He agrees that the team is most definite-

ly good for the city and the economy.

“True Vine” Baptist Church is a church that believes in the Holy Trinity (The Father, Son and Holy Ghost) and all the gifts of the Spirit: see I Corinthians 12:4-11. Pastor Jeanjacques has been employed by God to preach and teach His Word (Jesus) with accuracy, clarity and boldness, therefore; each new member is encouraged to attend Discipleship Orientation Classes which consists of six lessons and is assigned a guardian to be with them through the process of their transformation.

If you desire the truth? If you are seeking the leader who is motivated by his relationship with God and God’s relationship with him? If you are in need of a life changing worship experience? “True Vine” Baptist Church cordially invites you to join them on Sundays: Worship Services 7am & 11am and Sunday School 9:40am (The Lord’s Supper every 3rd Sunday, 11am), Mondays: Prayer Service 6:30pm and Tuesdays: Bible Study 7pm.

Citizens Together Magazine

19

than a

Finding Hope and Healing with Heath Evans

By Jean Bailey Robor

“At four years of age, I told my dad I wanted to be a football player and I was going to play in the NFL. I’ve known for a long, long time what I wanted to be. I was one of those kids that was willing to work for my goal.” Today, Heath Evans has achieved his goal of becoming a football player in the National Football League. He proudly sports the black and gold of the New Orleans Saints. Of the fans, Heath says, “They are one of a kind, to say the least. They are the only crowd who are college-like. I love ‘em!”

Anyone who has crossed paths with Heath knows he is a man with a big heart. Today, he and his wife are on a mission, dedicated to foster hope and healing in the lives of chil20 Citizens Together Magazine

dren and families affected by sexual abuse. Through the Heath Evans Foundation, they are committed to breaking the cycle of abuse through healing the psychological, physical and spiritual wounds that have been inflicted upon innocent children. The couple is passionate about their ministry because they know, first hand, what it’s like to be a family affected by childhood sexual abuse. “Every time we’re able to help another victim,” says Heath, “My wife gets a little bit more healing. Obviously I want to use the platform we’ve created through the NFL to continue to drive awareness. We know what and how to provide because we’re two people who have walked through it.”

Creating the Foundation was a

natural step forward for the Evans family. “After seeing Beth’s pain and heartache, which she carried around day-by-day, give way to a realm of healing, we realized this was too good to keep to ourselves.” There are many victims who do not have the support of a spouse or someone to stand up for them. The Heath Evans Foundation offers services and resources to heal broken hearts. Not only that, it gives them a voice. Victims of childhood sexual abuse are encouraged to share their stories on www.imavictim.com as a step toward healing.

Sadly, one out of four females, and one out of six males, before the age of 18 will be sexually abused.

Heath says, “We built that website

and designed it so people could go on and dispel the idea that they are the only one. It breaks down the lie that they’re the only one that’s been wounded, that they’re all alone in this battle. Really, it is much more common, much more prevalent than anyone would like to admit. That website is for people that will share their stories, but also find their story amongst the other hearts’ cries that are on there. It’s people kind of crying their heart out in a blog format, just wanting to be set free from depression and shame and guilt and anxiety and unforgiveness and some of the other different evils that really disturbs their emotional well being.”

Heath and his wife Beth have two little girls of their own. Heath believes the best way to keep your children safe is to have constant and open communication. Knowing where your children are and who they are spending time with is key. Heath says, “Constant care and super, super, super detailed attention. In that detailed attention I think you really set yourself up to be able to protect your children that, if something was to happen, you would recognize the signs because you are aware of your child’s normal emotional state of mind. That would drastically change after an encounter of sexual abuse.

For our family, it’s about awareness about people you meet in the gym, school or at church or anywhere else.”

But what if you want to reach out and help children beyond your family? Helping via the Foundation is simple. Heath suggests, “Start by directing your friends and neighbors to the website, www.heathevans. org. And say, hey, Heath is a football player I came across and he’s doing some great stuff if you have small kids. There’s some info on here to set you up to be a better parent, to really bring you awareness of the battle you’re facing in this day and age of raising children in any faith,

form and fashion.” Then, determine if you’d like to help out financially or by volunteering at events. If you have children in your home, follow Heath’s example. “We always speak the truth. The truth sometimes is very uncomfortable but, with our kids, it’s eye-opening and shows them love and concern and care that I think most kids are missing.”

Today’s children live in a different world. Not only do you need to be watchful of predators in our neighborhoods, you need to be watchful of those that infiltrate your own home via the Internet. “Kids of any age should be guarded while they’re on the Internet,” says Heath. “Some parents will disagree with me there but you can do simple searches these days and end up on a pornographic website.” In July 2010, iLeadOnline reported there were approximately 370 million pornographic websites on the Internet. Heath recommends installing software on your personal computers to protect your children from predators on popular social networking sites such as Facebook or Twitter.

To help promote awareness, Heath participates in events such as The Naked Truth. “This was basically an event that was set up for young people to discover the social consequences of pornography and the effects it can have on your marriage, the effects it can have on your personality, the effects it can have on friendships and dating, the effects it can have on the relationships with your parents and everyone else. I felt highly called to do it because of what does exist on the Internet and what kids are faced with. We talk about a 52% divorce rate in our country and we wonder why. We talk about some of the social ills that our culture is facing and yet we’re a highly perverse culture, a culture that sells everything with sex. Our young girls grow up thinking that their bodies are what attention should be drawn

to and we’re destroying, not only the female population but the male population as well because we’re teaching our males that women are possessions, they’re good for sexual pleasure and that’s it. And as a culture, we’re going downhill and downhill fast.”

Childhood sexual abuse affects ever race, every financial realm, it’s in every community. The Heath Evans Foundation is equipped to help communities through training school teachers, Bible teachers, anyone that allows them to come in on the signs of sexual abuse. As Heath says, “We find ways to foster awareness and meet the community’s needs. That’s what we’re here to do.”

Their pupose is simple. “We want to offer, free of charge, professional counseling to victims of childhood sexual abuse so that first and foremost they can heal from the emotional scars that have been placed on their life. The majority of the time, the physical wounds will heal and heal quickly. The emotional wounds, if not dealt with, is like cancer. It can eat you alive from the inside out. It will eventually kill you. It might not kill you like cancer will, but it will kill you by maybe driving you to take a gun to your own head, maybe slitting your wrists. We’ve seen a lot.

What cancer does to the body is what sexual abuse does to the soul.”

But it’s not all bad. Because of the Foundation, Heath sees people come back to health and wellness emotionally. He believes the healing is God-given. “Anyone that knows me, anyone that’s been around me for 5 minutes will figure out my beliefs are the core of my life. They’re founded in the truth of Jesus Christ, the truth of the word of God, and I’m not ashamed about it. I know it’s not popular. I know it’s not politically correct. We believe in a faithbased counseling system that will drive victims to the only Person that can heal their heart and soul, Jesus Citizens Together Magazine

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Heath Evans and his wife are on a mission, dedicated to foster hope and healing in the lives of children and families affected by sexual abuse.

Christ. If people are willing to allow us to help them heal, obviously we jump at the chance.” Heath believes it is vital that they deal with the heart of the issue.

That’s why it is so important for victims of sexual abuse to begin their healing process, for themselves and to break the cycle. The premise of Heath’s message to victims is this: Your past does not have to hold you hostage. You can build a bright future, starting now.

Looking towards the future, Heath sees his work with the Foundation 22 Citizens Together Magazine

continuing. “The need is endless. It’s sad. The sadder part is most people are scared to come out and actually admit they were victims so it’s hard to get to the people that need it the most. But that’s what we’re here for; we’re here for the long haul.”

Not only that but he has an eye toward sports broadcasting. “Looks like football might always be a part of my life; I’ll just be talking about it instead of playing it.” In thinking back to the Victory Parade after the New Orleans Saints won Super Bowl XLIV, Heath says, “Words cannot

express what a million plus people looks like crammed into the NOLA streets!” But for now, when asked about another championship season, Heath says, “We know what it takes to get there and what we have to be willing to sacrifice to take home the Lombardi again. The good news is, I think next years’ team is willing to lay it all on the line to get it done for our great city!”

On the football field and with his work at the Foundation, it’s easy to see that #44 is more than a Saint.

CONGRATULATIONS

to the HORNETS PLAYERS

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7/22/11 4:40 PM